COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA (Hons) Social Sciences program at UWS provides a comprehensive exploration of society, politics, and policy, combining foundational knowledge with research skills and specialist pathways. In Year 1, students are introduced to sociology, social research, politics, and social policy, developing analytical and academic skills while understanding how modern societies have emerged. Year 2 deepens engagement with comparative politics, classical social and political thought, global society, social change, and both qualitative and quantitative research methods. From Year 3, students choose a specialist pathway in Sociology, Politics and Policy, or Sociology and Policy, focusing on advanced topics such as contemporary social issues, political systems, gender, culture, ethnicity, environmental policy, and policy responses. Students also prepare for their final year dissertation by honing research practice and analytical skills. In Year 4, the program culminates in an independent research project guided by expert academics, allowing students to develop a substantial dissertation on a chosen topic. Alongside this, students select elective modules to expand their specialist knowledge, covering areas such as sustainable cities, education policy, participation and democracy, social inequality, migration, nationalism, and political history. The program emphasizes critical thinking, research proficiency, and applied understanding, preparing graduates for careers in public, private, and voluntary sectors or further study.